Page 54 - Build Your Own Quadcopter_ Power Up Your Designs with the Parallax Elev-8

chapter 3

Building the Elev-8

Introduction

This is a long chapter that will take you through the complete process of building an Elev-8
by using the standard kit parts and a few additional components that are not part of the kit.
Most of the instructions, figures, and assembly drawings in this chapter were created by
Parallax for the Information and Assembly Guide that accompanies their Elev-8 Quadcopter Kit
(#80000) and are being presented with Parallax’s kind permission. (It made no sense for me
to create a new set of instructions when a perfectly acceptable and useful set was already in
existence.) I did take the liberty of adding some additional figures and written instructions
where I thought it would be useful. I also added my own instructions for some highly useful
components that will make your build a bit easier. The entire build should take anywhere
from 10 to 12 hours, provided you have all the requisite parts, tools, and a functional work
space. I will discuss the tools and supplemental materials, but first it is important to review
some safety tips.

Safety

The following bulleted safety items were taken from the Parallax document cited above:
• WARNING: CUTTING HAZARD. Rotating ELEV-8 quadcopter blades can cut skin
and underlying tissues. Stay away from a powered ELEV-8 quadcopter and never become
complacent during operation.
• WARNING: ENTANGLEMENT HAZARD. Secure long hair and loose clothing or
jewelry when building, testing, and operating your ELEV-8 quadcopter to avoid
entanglement with motors.
• WARNING: EYE HAZARD. Always wear eye protection when assembling, soldering,
operating, or repairing your ELEV-8 quadcopter.
• Inform yourself of and follow all current federal, state, and local laws regarding
the use of hobby RC aircraft in the area where you plan to operate your ELEV-8 quadcopter.
Review the FAA’s rules in entirety—you are responsible for following them.
• This kit is not for beginners. Advanced mechanical skill is required for building and
flying an ELEV-8 quadcopter. RC aircraft experience is highly recommended.

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